heat tracing

heat tracing

Do all thermal insulation have basically the same products?

While thermal insulations have thermal conductivities, or k-factors, that reduce the flow of heat, the k-factors vary depending on the specific thermal insulation type. They also have different maximum temperature ratings. These factors must be addressed in a heat tracing design.

A heat loss is based on a 25 mph wind. The specification is for a 50 mph wind. Is there a major increase in heat loss?

Typically not, because most of the reduction in heat loss is through the thermal insulation. The increase for this change in wind speed may be only 2-5%.

Can a pipe or vessel be heated up in a short period of time?

Typically not. Heat tracing is primarily used for temperature maintenance. Heat-ups in short periods of time (minutes to a few hours) will most likely require more heat than that needed to maintain the temperature at the desired temperature above ambient.

What does thermal equilibrium mean?

This is a common term as it relates to thermodynamics and heat transfer calculations.
It is a state of thermal dynamics where the stabilized temperature is a result of the heat input equal to the heat loss.

Can you install the cable on top of a pipe?

Installing the cable on top or directly at the bottom of a pipe is not recommended as it could result in mechanical damage to the cable.

On top of the pipe the cable is susceptible to personnel walking on cable.

Is thermal insulation really necessary for heat tracing systems?

Yes. The heat losses without thermal insulation are excessive and not practical to compensate for with heat tracing.

Syndicate content